So Rex doesn’t like having his nails trimmed. When I try to do it, I can get one. Then the next day, Hubby holds him again and I get another. This process takes about two weeks. Stress for him and I get so nervous that I’ll hurt him. But his nails really needed a trim so off to PetSmart for a Pawdicure. But no bandana because of his neck issues.
Rex is so good in the car. He looks out the windows (closed because of the wind phobia) and seems so happy. We get to the parking lot and I open the door, grab the leash, and he doesn’t move. I coax him out. We start to walk toward the store. At each car he stops, tail tucked between the legs, and then bursts by the car. Full stop at the next car, repeat all the way to the end. He stops on the little island, does some business on the little shrub, and then sits down.
I applaud his bravery thus far and try to cross the road to the sidewalk in front of the stores. We get four or five feet, with cars waiting, and he sits again. I sort of half carry him back to the little island (it was closer). We pause for a few minutes, I pet his belly, tell him how sweet his is, and we try again.
Two or three minutes later, we’re on the sidewalk. About 30 feet to the doors of PetSmart. Wind is blowing the leaves around, keeping the fear fresh for every step. An employee happens to come out, sees the scaredy dog, and starts encouraging Rex. Between the two of us, we make it to the door. He has a little accident, but the sidewalk can handle a little tinkle.
Next we face the automatic doors. Then we work our way to the grooming area and there seems to be a LONG line. Happily it’s a bunch of dogs at an adoption event. No line at the grooming area! First-timer mom didn’t know she needed the rabies certificate, but the nice lady called the vet.
It takes a few minutes to coax Rex to the table, and then his spa day begins. They suggest I wait outside, I readily agree.
I won’t take you step by step through the Pawdicure. Suffice it say five groomers earned their pay today. And they didn’t charge for the full Pawdicure since they could only complete two of the eight or nine features. But his nails are trimmed and pads shaved. The groomers were amazing and were so sweet, patient, and gentle with my sweet Rex.
He’s resting now. We’ll go again in January during the secret quiet time the groomers told me about. Rex is the best dog.
ohbloodyhell8 